Following a week full of wild trades, ESPN’s Shams Charania has revealed that the Brooklyn Nets and Ben Simmons are working towards a buyout agreement that would allow the three-time All-Star to join a contending team ahead of the 2025 NBA Playoffs.
Nets, Ben Simmons Working On Contract Buyout Agreement
In December, reports stated that the Nets would not engage in talks with Simmons on a contract buyout. Whatever happened between then and now, the Cleveland Cavaliers and Los Angeles Clippers are regarded as “potential suitors” for the multi-positional playmaker.
Breaking: Brooklyn Nets are working on a potential buyout for Ben Simmons to make him a free agent. #Netsworld
Clippers and Cavs are interested suitors.
pic.twitter.com/TcrFYapUNz— NetsKingdom
(@NetsKingdomAJ) February 6, 2025
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Simmons’ career has notoriously been mired by injuries since his fallout with the Philadelphia 76ers. However, at one point, it seemed possible that Simmons could extend his career in Brooklyn. Indeed, prior to the season, there was speculation that the Nets could re-sign him if he played well enough.
Whether he reached that benchmark is unclear. Nonetheless, he likely has done well enough to earn another contract in the offseason. At least, that’s if the two-year, $20 million extension that Chicago Bulls point guard Lonzo Ball signed on Wednesday has anything to say about it. Furthermore, judging by the interest he’s drawn from teams with realistic title hopes, he can still be considered a winning player.
What Role Will Ben Simmons Play?
Simmons may not play a traditional role for either the Cavs or Clippers. Like the Nets, they could use him as a point guard, forward, and center at both ends.
With that in mind, multi-faceted skillset has been enhanced by an increased willingness to score. Though he still shies away from taking long-distance jumpers, he’s no longer a non-factor if he can’t make an assist. With his versatility, instincts, and intelligence –which shows up defensively as well –he can be dynamic for his future team. This is particularly the case for the Cavs, who have had some trouble defending longer and more athletic players as of late.
Due to his injury history, it’s worth noting that neither Cleveland nor Los Angeles has to rely on him. Both teams are strong enough to reach the postseason, and perhaps more, without him. He’s simply a luxury addition whose ability to act as a connector and defensive stopper can help truly teams.
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